Students at Trevilians and Thomas Jefferson elementary schools reclaimed their gymnasium after a reopening ceremony last Thursday.

The students, joined by their families and Trevor the Eagle— the school’s mascot—enjoyed basketball, music and refreshments in the gym for the first time since the structure was closed nearly seven months ago.

In late-February, during what had become a routine post-aftershock inspection, engineers from the firm Dewberry & Davis discovered an elongated crack in the gymnasium ceiling.

The engineers recommended the gym not be used until repairs were made, forcing physical education classes outside for both schools.

For more of the story, check out The Central Virginian’s online or print edition from Sept. 27.